El Tiburón Sayulita — Restaurant in Nayarit

I want to leave this as more as feedback instead of a negative review because the food here really is Superb. Like, so good you’re unlikely to have a better meal here in all of Sayulita.

The issue we ran into was with our server. Which, too be fair, I think he’s likely to be a good guy who was probably just stretched a bit thin that night.

As we were ordering, a giant group of Americans came in and took up the essentially the entire restaurant. After they were sat it seemed like the rest of the patrons, ourselves included were completely forgotten about.

In the hour or so we were there our waters were never brought to our table and one of entree’s was forgotten about entirely and never put in the order.

Now, This in itself wasn’t that big of deal. My girlfriend and I have years of restaurant experience behind us and things like this happen. We were perfectly happy to shrug it off.

The issue, and the reason that I’m writing this is because instead of simply saying - “Oh, sorry we missed that I’ll get it out through right now” - the waiter instead SNAPPED at us and aggressively BLAMED US for issue with the order…

It came as a bit of shock because he was very nice while taking our order and we were very polite.

We had been there for about an hour, hour and a half at this point and were ready to go. As we were sorting out the check we asked (we had asked for and received the check before our forgotten entree made it to our table mind you) for the entree and the waters to be removed. When the waiter then argued with and tried to guilt and shame us for no longer wanting it.

Anyway, at this point our dinner moods were pretty much ruined and we felt uncomfortable being there so we threw down the pasta asked for our check again and paid for everything.

Another thing that made us uncomfortable was after he asked for a tip he stood over us and with card reader to make sure we felt pressured to still tip him which was a bit ridiculous.

Anyway, like I said before I’m sure he’s an alright guy normally. I think he was stretched thin. There were probably 30 or so people there with him being the only one taking orders. Maybe have someone for backup the next time it gets busy so he’s not so stressed out and arguing with people paying...

While trying to narrow down a dinner spot during a lively Sayulita evening (a daunting task in this town), I had the good fortune to wander into El Tiburon, a hidden gem tucked away in an alley between Av. Revolucion and C. Jose. Mariscal. One might assume it was the sleek ambiance that lured me in...or the sight of their extensive creative craft cocktail program...or perhaps the enticing smell of their Oaxacan and American fusion cuisine. But the true credit goes to the professional and inviting staff...and especially Carmen. Carmen has that unique ability to make first-time guests already feel like regulars---something she truly manifested as I've returned now close to 20 times. She's an example of how hospitality trumps all other factors integral to a succesful restaurant. Each time my fiancee and I return, we're greeted like old friends and it's Carmen's personal attention--and human decency--that's made us recommend El Tiburon to so many.

One final note: in addition to caring about their customers, the staff of this restaurant go out of their way to care for the local community, in particular the many children in Sayulita selling on the street. Witnessing the warmth they show these kids (not something you see at every restaurant in Sayulita) makes me that much more eager to support this business.

For an amazing evening and an unforgettable Sayulita experience, head to El Tiburon. Ask for Carmen and you won't be disappointed....check out the wachos....AND don't miss the amazing cocktails from Lalo,...

So these two natural born restauranteurs, gracious hosts and superbly entertaining and lovely people have created a restaurant in Sayu that is a superb addition to the wealth of eateries in town. Alan and Jennifer fit into this Beachside town like your naked feet into well worn flip-flops. Atmosphere and energy from the hosts have permeated into the sun-addled personas of the energetic wait staff and of course Carlos and Carmen who orchestrate the whole operation wearing their management hats. And don't hesitate to sit at the bar to be doted upon by their endlessly entertaining and attentive bar staff.

The food, the menu, my tastebuds sending signals to the brain imploring for more of the same from previous visits, all colliding with the knowledge there are many more offering still to taste. The southern Americana leanings include everything from baked Mac n' cheese with BBQ pulled pork to chicken tenderloin plate to a creative list of plates to serve the pescaterian inclinations you may bring with you after a day on the beach (only two blocks away!).

El Tiburón is such a welcome addition to our town. Great music, food and a vibe that can't help but pick you up and carry you along a wave of happiness and positive energy and of course, the food! It is really, really good! Jennifer, Alan...outstanding work, your life-work.... Let's call it live, love, play...eat! See you...